Silent Period to Commence from 5:00 PM today

way2barak April 7: The Election Commission of India has announced that the Silent Period for the ongoing General Election to the Assam Legislative Assembly, 2026, in respect of all Legislative Assembly Constituencies (LACs) in Assam, will commence from 5:00 PM on 7th April, 2026, i.e., 48 hours prior to the close of poll, in accordance with the provisions of Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

During the Silent Period, all forms of election-related campaigning are strictly prohibited. This includes public meetings, processions and any other campaign activities. The display of election-related content through electronic or social media is also prohibited.

Canvassing of votes through any mode, including bulk SMS, phone calls or social media platforms shall not be permitted during this period. Further, any activity aimed at influencing voters is strictly barred.

After the closure of campaign period presence of political functionaries and party workers, who have been brought from outside the constituency and who are not voters of the constituency, should not remain present in the constituency as their continued presence after end of campaign period may undermine the atmosphere for free and fair poll. Hence, the Election Commission has directed that the district election administration/police administration shall ensure that all such functionaries leave the constituency immediately after the campaign period is over.

It is further clarified that under Section 126(1)(b) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the display of any election matter, including results of opinion polls or any other survey, in electronic media-such as television, cinematograph, or similar apparatus-is prohibited during the 48 hours ending with the hour fixed for the conclusion of the poll.

Chief Electoral Officer, Assam, Anurag Goel, has urged all contesting candidates, political parties, and media organizations to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India. Political parties are also advised to instruct their workers and supporters to ensure full compliance during the Silent Period. Any violation of these provisions will attract penal action under the relevant sections of law.